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Geoscience |
| Semester 1 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-10036 | Geology: Planet Earth | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module introduces the Earth as a planet, geological processes such as plate tectonics and how these processes relate to geological features such as volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis. These geological processes and features are compared to those on the Moon, Venus and Mars. | ||||||
| ESC-10037 | Geology: Rocks, Minerals and Fossils | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides an introduction to common rock forming minerals, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks in hand specimen and the major fossil groups including trilobites, graptolites, ammonites, corals and dinosaurs. It includes three one-day field courses introducing rocks, geological map making and museum fossil collections. | ||||||
| ESC-10047 | Geoscience Data Interpretation, Analysis and Visualisation | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides an introduction to geophysical, remote sensing, geographical/geological information system (GIS) techniques for the handling of a variety of geoscience data. It is divided into three sections of equal duration: - Geophysical data interpretation, focusing on the seismic refraction and reflection methods - Remote sensing, including the interpretation of imagery at different scales - The use of GIS as a tool for the integration and interpretation of a variety of geoscience data. The further development of numeracy and computing skills are also embedded within this module. | ||||||
| Semester 2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| CHE-10044 | Introductory Environmental Chemistry | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module helps students develop knowledge and understanding of key chemical principles fundamental to the field of environmental chemistry, environmental science and to the practising environmental scientist. In addition to this core knowledge and understanding students gain practical skills of working with samples and analytical techniques in the laboratory and experience in applying this knowledge and these techniques to environmental applications. These core principles are taught around a series of high profile environmental case studies. | ||||||
| ESC-10033 | Geology: Rocks - Up Close | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module develops the understanding of the formation and classification of different rock types by examining them up close using a petrological microscope. It also further develops skills in geological map making with a three-day field course in Llangollen, North Wales. | ||||||
| ESC-10034 | Geology: Time & Space | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides an introduction to Earth time and Earth history. It covers stratigraphic principles and geological evolution of Europe. The module also introduces geological structures and the interpretation of geological maps. A six day field course (e.g. Pembrokeshire) brings together the stratigraphic and structural geology concepts. | ||||||
| ESC-10048 | The Earth System | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This level 1 module provides an overview and considers interactions between the Earth's major systems, including the solid earth (geosphere), biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere, and how they combine in terms of their physical, geochemical and environmental processes. It also helps students gain useful experience of a range of employability skills within a geoscience context. | ||||||
| Semester 1 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ~ | ESC-20001 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | C | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| Application of simple experimental systems and geochemistry to an understanding of igneous rock suites. Introduction to isotopic techniques for magma source identification and age dating. Detailed study of regionally metamorphosed rocks selected to show how the influence of initial rock composition (protolith), fluid migration (metasomatism) and varying temperature and pressure dictate the metamorphic mineral assemblage. | ||||||
| ESC-20036 | Palaeoclimatology and Quaternary Studies | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module will focus on the study of Quaternary/late Neogene deposits and how they can be interpreted to understand the processes that caused their formation, as well as understanding them as indicators of palaeoenvironmental conditions. The module will also cover the occurrence, evidence for and possible causes of climate change over geological time. A one-day field excursion will be included to provide an understanding of how surface processes have affected landscape development during the Quaternary and to cover a variety of field techniques for interpreting and analysing recent deposits. | ||||||
| ESC-20039 | Advanced Structural Geology and Geological Mapping Training | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module combines two important aspects of Geological study, Structural Geology and Geological Mapping Training. In the Structural Geology component of the module, a combination of lectures and practical classes are used to enable students to investigate the behaviour of rocks when deformed and the methods used to study their deformation. A series of lectures are used provide knowledge and understanding of well-established principles in structural geology, while the practical classes focus on the methodologies used for the interpretation, analysis and visualisation of structural data. The practical classes place emphasis on the use of computing techniques for structural analysis and visualisation, including the use of Geographical/Geological Information Systems (GIS). The Geological Mapping Training part of the module is mainly based on a residential field course that takes place immediately before the start of the second year and covers the techniques used to make a geological map. On the first two days students are instructed in a number of small groups in the basic principles of geological mapping. Staff and demonstrators ensure that everyone has a firm understanding of the operation of the compass/clinometer, of the techniques for establishing topographical location; and the way in which information should be recorded in field note books and on the map. For the remainder of the field course students work in pairs and make a detailed geological map of an area of about 1.5 km2. Mapping pairs are allocated to work on one of two adjoining areas of relatively mountainous terrain. Each pair is regularly accompanied for half a day by a member of staff or demonstrator, who will observe their performance and help with any problems that may arise. Aerial photograph interpretation is also covered on the course. Evening classes take place at the accommodation centre to ink-in the day's work, to study problematical rock types, to discuss progress with staff, and for highlighting any difficulties that may have been encountered. All staff are present throughout the evening sessions and short informal talks are given on a variety of mapping topics. There are close links between both parts of the module such that students make use of some of the field data collected during the mapping training exercise within the practical classes related to advanced structural geology. | ||||||
| ESC-20054 | Forensic &Historical Geoscience | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides the Geoscience degree programme with stimulating applied topics &complementary subject matter to the course. It is divided into two complementary sections: • Forensic Geoscience with emphasis on the forensic techniques that are used to locate burial material that may be of interest to law enforcement. • Historical Geoscience with emphasis on both historical &modern uses of geoscience for applied purposes. The further development of employability skills is also embedded within this module, including development of writing skills (technical reports), student-led group problem solving &computing skills. | ||||||
| Semester 2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-20002 | Reconstructing Past Environments | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This course demonstrates how the geomorphology of ancient sedimentary environments can be reconstructed from evidence in the rock record and from using equivalent modern environments as a template. | ||||||
| ESC-20032 | Environmental Analytical Methods | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides students with training in the analytical techniques applicable to the environmental scientist, and the experience to further develop skills in data analysis and interpretation, and research design. These skills are all essential skills sought by employers in environmental industries. | ||||||
| ESC-20037 | Geoscience and Society | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The "Geoscience and Society" module develops an awareness of the essential contributions of geoscience to the economic, environmental and cultural needs of Society. It contains four main sections: "Georesources and Society" investigates the sustainability of energy and mineral resources (oil, gas, coal, geothermal; platinum, copper, gold, etc.) and other associated issues (radioactive waste disposal, CO2 sequestration, 'fracking'). "Geohazards and Society" studies the human impact of geological phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, landslides, and subsidence. "Geoscience and Health" examines topics such as asbestos, heavy metals and radon and diseases related to geology. "Geodiversity and Geoconservation" examines the designation and maintenance of sites important to geoscience (World Heritage, Geoparks, SSSIs, RIGS), together with their place in planning and public understanding of geoscience. | ||||||
| ESC-20040 | Geoscience Field Techniques | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides students the opportunity to improve their geoscience field technique skills, as well as neatly complementing the other core 2nd year advanced structural geology and geological mapping training module. In Unit A, students will create a covering letter and CV for a prospective graduate job, so they become familiar with the job application process and maximise their chances of degree-relevant employment. In Unit B, near-surface geophysical techniques will be taught, with hands-on use of commercial equipment in outdoor practicals, which also includes data processing and interpretation exercises. This will gain students skills to enter employment in geotechnical investigation, environmental or forensic science commercial organisations. In Unit C, teamwork and verbal presentation skills will be needed for a poster exercise, before a one-week overseas residential field course will be undertaken. Students will develop their geological field skills in geological mapping, knowledge and understanding of a major geological mountain chain, sedimentary basin and basement province. In Unit D, students will write an independent literature review report of either their proposed year three independent overseas field area, or of a chosen geophysical technique. | ||||||
| Semester 1 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| + | ESC-30006 | Glaciers and Glacial Geomorphology | EA | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| This course gives students the opportunity to develop a high level of expertise in a specific field of geography: the study of glaciers and glacial landscapes. The main themes of the course are: the characteristics and behaviour of glaciers; the role of glaciers as part of the global system; and the impact of glaciers on the landscape. In recent Earth history 30 per cent of the Earth's land surface has been covered by glaciers. At present, glaciers cover about 10 per cent of the land. Seventy five per cent of the world's fresh water is contained in glaciers, which provide irrigation water for some of the most densely populated areas of the world. The development potential of large areas of our planet is dependent on our ability to mitigate glacial hazards, to harness glacial resources, and to penetrate the glacial barrier to the immense terrestrial and marine resources of the polar regions. The whole global environmental system is dominated by the planet's glacial character, and an understanding of the Earth's surface is impossible without an understanding of the characteristics of glaciers. This module explores those characteristics. | ||||||
| ESC-30009 | Natural Hazards | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module examines the causes and characteristics of a broad variety of natural hazards and their destructive impact on human society. These hazards range from small-scale to large-scale events, from relatively minor disturbances to catastrophic disasters, and are associated with both environmental and anthropogenic triggers. Particular attention is paid to the assessment of risk and the steps that can be taken to prevent or mitigate the damage and disruption associated with these processes. This module examines the causes of a variety of natural hazards, to investigate their potential impacts on human society and infrastructure, and to evaluate the measures that can be taken to mitigate their destructive effects. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to: • Describe, illustrate and explain with reference to specific examples the causes and dangers associated with a range of natural hazards. • Assess the level of risk posed by natural hazards in a variety of real and hypothetical situations. • Describe the techniques that can be used to predict and mitigate the impacts of natural hazards, and evaluate which techniques are most appropriate in a variety of circumstances. The principal component of this module is a series of lectures. The coursework component involves two separate assignments: (1) an individual poster presentation (25%), and; (2) a group-led, problem-based exercise, involving the submission of a technical report (25%), with end semester examinations (50%) completing module assessments. | ||||||
| + | ESC-30018 | Global Environmental Change | EA | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| The Earth’s environment has been constantly changing throughout the history of the planet, and continuing change will have a serious impact on human activity. However, our understanding of how the environment changes is incomplete, and thus our ability to predict and adapt to future change is limited. This module aims to examine the key issues and debates about global environmental change. In particular, it aims to highlight the relationships between global environmental change and the characteristics of the Earth's surface processes and landscapes, and to recognize the contested and limited nature of knowledge in this very dynamic subject. | ||||||
| ESC-30028 | Economic Geology | C | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module covers important aspects of economic geology, including ore body formation and mineral exploration methods, aggregate production and uses, and the formation, exploration and production of coal, including coal gasification. The module also includes excursions to working mines. | ||||||
| ESC-30036 | Exploration Geophysics for the Hydrocarbon Industry | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module investigates the use of exploration geophysics techniques employed in the search for hydrocarbons, including borehole geophysical methods and the acquisition, processing and interpretation of seismic reflection data. The module's aim is to equip the student with the vocabulary, knowledge and technical expertise to enter a career as a hydrocarbon exploration industry geophysicist. | ||||||
| Semester 1-2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-30032 | Geoscience: Independent Field Project | C | C | 15 | 30 | |
| This double-module builds upon subject-specific and practical skills that have been developed in previous years of the course to carry out an independent field-based investigation within an area of Geoscience. The module will include project formulation, research design, data collection, data analysis, data interpretation and report production, and will normally be underpinned by approximately 35 days of geological, geophysical and/or geochemical fieldwork carried out in the summer vacation before the start of the final year. The completion of this module provides students with experience of a number of subject-specific and general skills that are essential for geoscience employment or academic research. | ||||||
| Semester 2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ~ | ESC-30008 | Structure and Geodynamics | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| This module uses lecture and practical classes to study the structural and geodynamic effects associated with continental tectonics. Extensional, compressional, inversion, wrench/strike-slip regimes are studied at both regional and local scales. The first part of the course explains the structural styles exhibited in each of these regimes. In addition, the analysis of a variety of geological and geophysical data during practical classes provides an understanding of the formation and evolution of geological features such as extensional sedimentary basins and mountain belt-foreland basin couplets. Extensional and inversion tectonics are also illustrated during a field weekend in SW England. The geodynamics component of the course concentrates upon explaining the fundamental processes that occur within the lithosphere during continental tectonics. Emphasis is placed upon mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic controls upon basin formation. The practical element of this part of the course provides an introduction to the numerical and computer modelling of geological processes. | ||||||
| + | ESC-30020 | Water Resources | EA | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| Water is a vital resource to life on Earth. Pressures on water resources in many regions are growing due to increasing population, decreasing quality of water and anticipated climate change. In order to effectively manage water resources it is important to understand hydrological processes and both problems and potential solutions surrounding both water quantity and water quality, and the requirements of the human and ecological water users. | ||||||
| + | ESC-30022 | Hydrological and Engineering Geology | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| This module will look at the related subjects of engineering and hydrological geology from a applied practical perspective. In particular, it will focus on the way in which geological factors influence the availability of water resources and the design/construction of geotechnical engineering structures. This is an active research area at Keele and thus students gain valuable knowledge and experience with current cutting-edge technologies and ideas. The availability of this module provides an important addition to the portfolio of geoscience topics offered to year 3 students whilst building upon material taught in both years 1 and 2 (e.g. Structural Geology, Environmental Geoscience and Applied &Environmental Geophysics). It also complements the existing year 3 modules such as Advanced Topics in Sedimentology, Advanced Geophysics and Water Resources. | ||||||
| + | ESC-30025 | Micropalaeontology: Principles and Applications | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| This course involves the study of major microfossil groups, their palaeogeographical, palaeoecological and biostratigraphical potential. An overview of the most important palaeoecological processes is presented. An introduction to state-of-the art Electron microscopic techniques (Fe-SEM and TEM) is included within this module. | ||||||
| + | ESC-30027 | Coastal Environments | EA | M | 7.5 | 15 |
| The coastal zone is a highly dynamic and diverse environment. It contains a wide variety of geomorphic landforms and is influenced by numerous processes which operate over a range of temporal and spatial scales. This module explores the processes that drive coastal morphological changes, such as sea-level change, tides and ocean waves, discusses the nature of a range of coastal landforms and examines the links between form and process at a variety of temporal and spatial scales. The final part of this module, addressed predominately through the major coursework assignment, deals with the issue of coastal zone management. The module includes both lectures, which incorporate examples of active research in the areas covered, and practical activities, which seek to reinforce the material covered in lectures and through the guided reading. | ||||||
| ESC-30030 | Advanced Petrology and Structural Geology Field Course | O | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The module is based on a week-long residential field course. The main aim of this field course is to provide students with the opportunity to study igneous and metamorphic rocks in the field. In addition, consideration of petrological processes and emphasis on aspects of structural geology will provide students with an understanding of magma emplacement (and its effects at different crustal levels), orogen construction and terrane accretion, and the crustal evolution of a specific tectonic regime(e.g. NW Scottish Highlands). The module will further develop geological fieldwork skills, as well as employability skills, that are essential for a career as a professional geoscientist. | ||||||
| ESC-30033 | Volcanic and Magmatic Processes | O | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module provides students with the opportunity to study active volcanic and magmatic processes primarily through a field course to southern Italy. The main emphasis of the course is on the field investigation of volcanic rocks, but it also introduces aspects of physical volcanology, volcanic hazards, volcano monitoring, igneous petrology, geochemistry, geodynamics and global environmental change. The module involves 4 to 5 practical classes (workshops) covering topics related to the field course, followed by a 10-day residential fieldtrip to classic volcanic areas in Naples (Vesuvius, Campi Flegrei) and the Aeolian Islands (currently Stromboli, Lipari, Vulcano). Conditions permitting, the field course involves a climb of the active Stromboli volcano to observe its spectacular summit eruptions at night. The field course will take place in May after the year-3 examination period. The module is designed for students in Geology, Geoscience and MGeoscience who have progressed to year 3 of their course. It will be assessed through two practical exercises, an oral presentation, production of a fact sheet and a set of individual and group exercises on the field course. | ||||||
| ESC-30034 | Advanced Topics in Sedimentology | EP | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The stratigraphical principles introduced in Year 2 are studied in greater depth, concentrating on the analytical methods of seismic and sequence stratigraphy, which allow the geometry of sedimentary rock bodies to be related to basin wide tectonic and eustatic controls. The development of sequence stratigraphical techniques is a key part of modern hydrocarbon exploration, and the principles of hydrocarbon exploration will be introduced in the second half of the module. | ||||||
| Semester 1 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-40002 | Programming Skills for Earth Scientists | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module covers computer programming concepts using the the object-oriented programming paradigm and the industry-standard Java programming language. The course follows a 'workshop' format with concepts introduced and then practised immediately in order to allow as much 'hands-on' computer programming experience as possible. The course covers object-orientated programming in Java, the design and implementation of Java applications and applets, Graphical User Interface design and implementation, graphics-orientated Java programming and programme documentation. Programming exercises cover the development of small routines that illustrate the use of the main aspects of Java programming and culminate with the development of an independent graphical Java application. | ||||||
| ESC-40003 | Literature Synthesis | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| ESC-40015 | MGeoscience: Natural Hazards | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module examines the causes and characteristics of a broad variety of natural hazards and their destructive impact on human society. these hazards range from small-scale to large-scale events, from relatively minor disturbances to catastrophic disasters, and are associated with both environmental and anthropogenic triggers. Particular attention is paid to the assessment of risk and the steps that can be taken to prevent or mitigate the damage and disruption associated with these processes. | ||||||
| ESC-40017 | MGeoscience: Glaciers and Glacial Geomorphology | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The aim of this course is for students to develop a high level of expertise in a specific field of geography. The main themes of the course are: the characteristics and behaviour of glaciers; the role of glaciers as part of the landscape; the impact of glaciers on the landscape; the importance of glaciers to society; recent developments in glaciology, and their broader significance. 20 one-hour meetings | ||||||
| ESC-40018 | MGeoscience: Global Environmental Change | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The Earth’s environment has been constantly changing throughout the history of the planet, and continuing change will have a serious impact on human activity. However, our understanding of how the environment changes is incomplete, and thus our ability to predict and adapt to future change is limited. This module aims to examine the key issues and debates about global environmental change. In particular, it aims to highlight the relationships between global environmental change and the characteristics of the Earth's surface processes and landscapes, and to recognize the contested and limited nature of knowledge in this very dynamic subject. | ||||||
| ESC-40026 | MGeoscience: Economic Geology | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module covers important aspects of economic geology, including ore body formation and mineral exploration methods, aggregate production and uses, and the formation, exploration and production of coal, including coal gasification. The module also includes excursions to working mines. | ||||||
| ESC-40027 | MGeoscience: Advanced Topics in Sedimentology | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The stratigraphical principles introduced in Year 2 are studied in greater depth, concentrating on the analytical methods of seismic and sequence stratigraphy, which allow the geometry of sedimentary rock bodies to be related to basin wide tectonic and eustatic controls. The development of sequence stratigraphical techniques is a key part of modern hydrocarbon exploration, and the principles of hydrocarbon exploration will be introduced in the second half of the module. | ||||||
| ESC-40038 | MGeoscience: Exploration Geophysics for the Hydrocarbon Industry | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module investigates the use of exploration geophysics techniques employed in the search for hydrocarbons, including borehole geophysical methods and the acquisition, processing and interpretation of seismic reflection data. The module's aim is to equip the student with the vocabulary, knowledge and technical expertise to enter a career as a hydrocarbon exploration industry geophysicist. | ||||||
| Semester 1-2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-40004 | Research Project | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| ESC-40005 | Research in Context | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module facilitates acquisition by the students of knowledge of current research in the subject matter of their year 4 research project, and to evaluate the outcome of the project in relation to other work in the field. The emphasis of this module is to carry out a thorough searching and synthesis of the published literature available in the area of the research being conducted, and to be able to relate their own research to that of others carrying out work in similar fields. | ||||||
| ESC-40006 | Research Report | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| ESC-40006 (Year 4/Level M Core Module) is designed to facilitate communication of the methods, results and conclusions of the MGeoscience research project, also comprising ESC-40004 and ESC-40005. The content of the module relies upon a combination of one-to-one meetings with the project advisor(s) and self-learning techniques. It is expected that supervision meetings take place once every two weeks. The project report, along with supporting materials (e.g. project notebook), and poster, are submitted by the end of semester 2. | ||||||
| Semester 2 | C/O | TYP | ECTS | CATS | ||
| ESC-40007 | Spatial Geoscience Data Analysis | C | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| Spatial Geoscience Data Analysis is designed to introduce the visualisation and analysis of sub-surface geoscience data through computer aided mapping, cartographic packages, seismic interpretation and mapping and visualisation of multi-format data. Problem solving through geophysical data acquisition, analysis and interpretation enables the use of equipment and techniques that are at the forefront of professional practice. Throughout the course, industry standard software and methodologies will be used in order to simulate $ùreal world&© situations. | ||||||
| ESC-40019 | MGeoscience: Water Resources | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| Water is a vital resource to life on Earth. Pressures on water resources in many regions are growing due to increasing population, decreasing quality of water and anticipated climate change. In order to effectively manage water resources it is important to understand hydrological processes and both problems and potential solutions surrounding both water quantity and water quality, and the requirements of the human and ecological water users. | ||||||
| ESC-40020 | MGeoscience: Hydrological and Engineering Geology | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module will look at the related subjects of engineering and hydrological geology from a coherent, practical perspective. In particular, it will focus on the way in which geological factors influence the availability of water resources and the design/construction of engineering structures. The availability of this module provides an important addition to the portfolio of geoscience topics offered to year 3 students whilst building upon material taught in both years 1 and 2 (e.g. ESC-10013: Structural Geology and Environmental Geoscience, ESC-20031: Advanced Structural Geology and Solid Earth Geophysics). It also complements the existing year 3 modules such as Advanced Topics in Sedimentology (ESC-30003), Advanced Geophysics (ESC-30012) and Water Resources (ESC-30020). | ||||||
| ESC-40023 | MGeoscience: Micropalaeontology: Princp and Apps | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This course involves the study of major microfossil groups, their palaeogeographical, palaeoecological and biostratigraphical potential. An overview of the most important palaeoecological processes is presented. An introduction to state-of-the art Electron microscopic techniques (Fe-SEM and TEM) is included within this module. | ||||||
| ESC-40024 | MGeoscience: Structure and Geodynamics | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module uses lecture and practical classes to study the structural and geodynamic effects associated with continental tectonics. Extensional, compressional, inversion, wrench/strikeslip regimes are studied at both regional and local scales. The first part of the course explains the structural styles exhibited in each of these regimes. In addition, the analysis of a variety of geological and geophysical data during practical classes provides an understanding of the formation and evolution of geological features such as extensional sedimentary basins and mountain belt-foreland basin couplets. Extensional and inversion tectonics are also illustrated during a field weekend in SW England. The geodynamic component of the course concentrates upon explaining the fundamental processes that occur within the lithosphere during continental tectonics. Emphasis is placed upon mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic controls upon basin formation. The practical element of this part of the course provides an introduction to the numerical and computer modelling of geological processes. The course is delivered via 2 one-hour lectures & 3 hour practical class per week | ||||||
| ESC-40036 | MGeoscience: Volcanic and Magmatic Processes | O | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The module is designed for students in MGeoscience who have progressed to year 4 of their course. It provides students with the opportunity to study active volcanic and magmatic processes primarily through a field course to southern Italy. The main emphasis of the course is on the field investigation of volcanic rocks, but it also introduces aspects of physical volcanology, volcanic hazards, volcano monitoring, igneous petrology, geochemistry, geodynamics and global environmental change. The module involves several practical classes (workshops) covering topics related to the field course, followed by a 10-day residential fieldtrip to classic volcanic areas in Naples (Vesuvius, Campi Flegrei) and the Aeolian Islands (currently Stromboli, Lipari, Vulcano). Conditions permitting, the field course involves a climb of the active Stromboli volcano to observe its spectacular summit eruptions at night. The field course will take place in May after the level 3 and 4 examination period. | ||||||
| ESC-40039 | Evolution of Fossil Ecosystems | O | C | 7.5 | 15 | |
| This module is designed for students on the MGeoscience programme who have successfully progressed to year 4. It provides students with the opportunity to study and investigate the effects of palaeoenvironmental, palaeobiological, palaeoecological and geodynamic changes on the dynamic evolution of complex fossil ecosystems through time and space. The main emphasis of the course is laid on the field investigation of world-wide uniquely preserved, prime Fossil Lagerstätten in Central Europe, but also on their geological and geodynamical context, which will enable the students to quantify and critically evaluate the causes and effects of Global Change documented in the Fossil and Geological record. The module involves several practical classes (workshops) covering the topics of the field course, followed by a 10-day residential field trip to the most prominent and important Fossil Lagerstätten in Central Europe (Maastricht, Gedinne, Rhenish Mountains, Vosges Septentrionales, Messel, Solnhofen, Holzmaden, Steinheim Basin). This field course will take place in May after the level 3 and 4 examination period. | ||||||
| ESC-40040 | MGeoscience: Coastal Environments | O | M | 7.5 | 15 | |
| The coastal zone is a highly dynamic and diverse environment. It contains a wide variety of geomorphic landforms and is influenced by numerous processes which operate over a range of temporal and spatial scales. This module explores the processes that drive coastal morphological changes, such as sea-level change, tides and ocean waves, discusses the nature of a range of coastal landforms and examines the links between form and process at a variety of temporal and spatial scales. The final part of this module, addressed predominately through the major coursework assignment, deals with the issue of coastal zone management. The module includes both lectures, which incorporate examples of active research in the areas covered, and practical activities, which seek to reinforce the material covered in lectures and through the guided reading. | ||||||